Best Kathmandu Hiking Tours | Day Hikes in Kathmandu

Bimal Dahal
Bimal Dahal
Updated on May 26, 2025
top of the jamacho nagarjun hill

If you're interested in a few days away from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, the Kathmandu hiking tours can provide you with beautiful mountain scenery, nature and cultural experiences that are all still close to the comforts of the city. It doesn't matter if you have just one day or three days; these hiking tours may benefit you and rejuvenate your body and mind. Most trekking tours will range in price from $67 to approximately $300, which makes it more affordable for the majority of travelers. 

Whether you're doing the Shivapuri hike, which will take you through beautiful forests and sacred sites of cultural significance, or the Chisapani Nagarkot trek, where you can watch the amazing views of the Himalayan peaks as you walk through local Nepali villages, these hiking options are awesome.

Most of the hiking destinations are relatively easy to get to in a short drive distance from the main city of Kathmandu. For example, suppose you want to attempt the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park hike. In that case, it will start roughly near Budhanilkantha and will take you up to 2732 meters high while viewing the peaks of Langtang, Ganesh Himal and, if you're lucky, clear skies showing Manaslu extremely far in the distance. Regardless of the hike, the scenery will certainly be beautiful.

This Hiking and Trekking tour from Kathmandu is a great opportunity for all types of travelers and ideal for first-time hikers wanting to hike in Nepal, families and retirees wanting an easy adventure close to the city. With such little distance, good scenery, and knowledgeable guides, hiking around Kathmandu is a wonderful way to enjoy a great outdoor activity without any difficult trekking or long travel.

Your Shortcut to Finding the Best Kathmandu Hiking Tours

Tour Name Trip Cost (USD) Duration Difficulty Max altitude (m)
Chisapani Nagarkot Trek ( 3 Days) $260-$350 3 Days Easy 2,175
Nagarjun Hill Day Hike $73–$97 6–7 Hours Easy 2,128
Sankhu to Nagarkot Hike $90–$125 1 Day Easy  2,160
Chandragiri Hill Hike $253–$353 1 Day Moderate 2,551
Namobuddha Dhulikhel Hike $109–$197 1 Day Easy 1,940
Nagi Gumba Day Hike $97-147 1 Day Easy 2,192
Phulchoki Hill Hike $97–$170 1 Day Moderate 2,791

Top Kathmandu Hiking Tours with Prices

  • Chisapani Nagarkot Trek (3 Days)
  • Duration: 3 Days
  • Destinations: Sundarijal, Chisapani, Nagarkot
  • Age Range: All ages
  • Activity Level: Easy to Moderate
  • Price Starting From: USD 277 per person

Do you want a getaway that includes something of nature, culture, and beautiful Himalayan views? This is the trek for you: the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek. The trek starts about 1 hour drive south of Kathmandu and is a 3-day trek through beautiful forests, lovely villages, and stunning views of the Himalayas; on a good day you may see Mt. Everest also. This is an excellent trek for beginners and for people who may not have much time to acclimate to the landscapes and culture of Nepal.   

Highlights of the Trek

Feature Details
Flora You will see the beauty of Shivapuri National Park, which has many different trees like rhododendron, oak, pine, and bamboo forests.
Fauna You will see different wildlife in the national park, from monkeys, deer, wild boars, and several types of birds.
Wildlife You may also see some wildlife, such as leopards and the Himalayan black bear, as well as hundreds of bird species which is a good way to see their diversity in Nepal.

Nagarjun Hill Kathmandu Day Hike

  • Duration: 1 Day
  • Destinations: Nagarjun Hill (Jamacho Gumba), Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
  • Age Range: All ages
  • Activity Level: Easy to Moderate
  • Price Starting From: USD 73 per person

If you are looking for a short escape from the city and are allowed to leave the franticness of Kathmandu behind, the Nagarjun Hill Day Hike might be the ideal day for you. Just a short drive from the main square of Thamel, this day hike gives you a taste of nature, spirituality, and breathtaking views across the valley. You are guaranteed to hike through lush forests to Nagarjun Hill and Jamacho Monastery, where on a clear day, you will be able to see not only the Kathmandu valley but the Himalayan ranges also. 

Highlights of the Trek

Category  Details
Flora Variety of vegetation including oak, rhododendron, pine, and bamboo forests
Fauna Wildlife includes wild boars, deer, monkeys, and many birds.
Wildlife Home to leopards, Himalayan black bears and lots of birds at Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.
Area The Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is a significant portion of a nearly 159 km² area.
Culture The Jamacho Monastery at the summit of Shivapuri is a popular spiritual location and important to Buddhist pilgrims, and local trekkers.
Panoramic Views With beautiful panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding mountain range.

Sankhu to Nagarkot Tour

  • Duration: 1 Day
  • Destinations: Sankhu → Lapsiphedi → Nagarkot
  • Age Range: 6–65 years
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Price Starting From: $89

The Sankhu to Nagarkot Trip is a great mix of cultural discovery and gentle walking. The Journey starts in Sankhu, an ancient mix like magar, newar, tamang town. After walking through temples, traditional houses and terraced fields, you make your way to the uphill ascent to Nagarkot (the first mountain viewpoint surrounding Kathmandu). It is going to be a great day - not so physically challenging day, a lovely family day out or just people wanting to do something slow-paced and relaxing yet satisfying. In one day, you are getting countryside, culture, and countless mountain views. 

Highlights:

Feature Details
Cultural Experience Explore the historical town of Sankhu, as well as the rich Newari culture.
Scenic Trail Walk through terraced farms and traditional rural villages.
Mountain Views Marvel at the Himalayas from the viewpoint of Nagarkot, where you'll experience sweeping, panoramic views.
Sunrise/Sunset Great location in Nagarkot to view sunrises and sunsets.
Local Interaction Meet local communities and experience rural Nepali life.

Chandragiri Hill Hike

  • Duration: 6–7 Hours
  • Destinations: Machhegaun → Chandragiri Hill Summit
  • Age Range: 10–65 years
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Price Starting From: $250 to $300

The Chandragiri Hill Tour is a combination of natural beauty with stunning panoramic mountain views and spirituality - all within a short drive from central Kathmandu City. The experience is riding the cable car to the top of Chandragiri Hill to enjoy mountain views and all of Kathmandu Valley. 

What happens while at the top? You can visit Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, enjoy the park at the top of the hill, or simply enjoy contemplating. What a lovely scenic experience for the whole family and a great way to experience your time in Nepal quickly.

Highlights:

Feature Details
Panoramic Views Stay classically Nepalese with ind-blowing views of the Annapurna, Manaslu and Everest Ranges abpove.
Flora and Faun Rich boidiversity and oppprtunity to see wildlife. 
Cultural Significance Chandragiri Hill has particular significance for both Biddhists. 
Cable Car Option You can take the cable car down and see all of this from above.
Photography This area provides an excellent opportunity to take landscape and wildlife photos. 

Namobuddha Dhulikhel Trek

  • Duration: 1 Day
  • Destinations: Dhulikhel – Namobuddha – Return
  • Age Range: 7 to 67 years 
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Price Starting From: 197 USD 

Take a short, peaceful hike crossing the green hills of Dhulikhel to the sacred site of Namobuddha. This trekking Namobuddha is with monastery, bringing together high hills, biodiversity, and culture all in one beautiful trek. You will hike through terraced fields and pine forests and observe various flora and fauna along the way before coming out to the sacred Namobuddha Monastery, which is important in Buddhist mythology. 

Highlights of the Trek 

Feature Description
Sacred Pilgrimage Sites  Visit Namobuddha monastery, which is full of legends about the selfless act of the Buddha to give himself as food to a starving tigress and her cubs. 
Diverse Flora Stroll along tree-lined trails of chir pine (Pinus roxburghii) and rhododendrons, guava, and pomegranate trees, medicinal herbs and riversides. 
Rich Fauna Watch for wildlife, such as barking deer and rhesus Macaques, in their habitat. 
Birdwatcher's Paradise Watch for birds, including the Himalayan bulbul, whtie--capped redstart, many species of warblers, flycatchers, and birds of prey, including eagles and vultures. 
Cultural Immersion Experience how local people live life in traditional villages and close contact with friendly people. 

Nagi Gumba Day Hike

  • Duration: 1 Day
  • Destinations: Budhanilkantha – Nagi Gumba – Tarebhir – Kopan Monastery
  • Age Range: 7 to 69 years
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Price Starting From: $77 USD 

Escape the noise of the city and take a nice, refreshing hike along the peaceful trails of Shivapuri National Park. Starting from the sacred Budhanilkantha Temple and up to the nunnery monastery at Nagi Gumba, then to Tarebhir, where you can get panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, then you can explore the many trails filled with biodiversity - great for bird watchers and lovers of nature. 

Highlights of the Hike 

Feature Description
Spiritual Sites We will start our excursion at the forested hill of the Budhanilkhantha temple with its giant reclining Vishnu statue. from there, we will hike to Nagi Gumba a tranquil monastery with female monks. 
Flora Diversity Then we will hike through beautiful verdant forests of black pine, alders, a few hazelnut trees, bayberry, rhododendrons, blue mimosa, Gulmohar, jacaranda, and orchids.
Fauna Encounters We will see some animals like barking deer, rhesus macaques, and many butterflies. 
Birdwatching Opportunities We will see many birds, including spiny babbler (the endemic bird species of Nepal), common myna, magpie, treepie, bulbul, cuckoo, babbler, and owl species. 
Scenic Vistas At Tarebir, you will have amazing view of Kathmandu Valley. 

Phulchoki Kathmandu Hike

  • Duration: 1 Day
  • Destinations: Godavari – Phulchoki Hill – Godavari
  • Age Range: 9 to 67 years 
  • Activity Level: Moderate 
  • Price Starting From: $97 USD

Hiking Phulchoki, or "Hill of Flower," is the tallest hill surrounding the Kathmandu Valley; you will find yourself on a magnificent journey, which will involve fantastic environmental diversity, from wonderful rhododendron forests to dozens of different species of birds. Either way, outstanding views are coming your way in all directions. Like all hikes up, you will move up the hill to see views of the Himalayas and the valley once at the summit or top. The hike starts and ends at the fairly nice little Godavari Botanical Garden. The botanical garden hike is a beautifying hike in itself.    

Highlights of the Hike 

Feature Description
Botanical Exploration At the Godavari Botanical Garden, the number and diversity of plant spices and one of the quietest environments you can find begins your journey. 
Floral Abundance You will wander through forests and rhododendrons, orchids, magnolias, mosses, ferns, and every type fo herbal plant. 
Birdwatcher's Haven  You can expect to see and hear more than 300 spices of birds, including HImalayan Monal, spiny, babbler, golden-throated barbet, large hawk cuckoo, black eagle, flycatchers, and warblers. 
Scenic Panaromas At the top, you will be rewarded with grand views of the Kathmandu Valley, as well as views of the far-off Himalayan ranges. 
Cultural Touchpoints There is also the Phulchoki Mai Temple at the top of the hill, which providesd an opportunity for spiritual reflection to accompany the excursion. 

Champadevi Hill Day Hike

  • Duration: 1 Day
  • Destinations: Pharping – Champadevi Hill
  • Age Range: 8 to 67 years
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Price Starting From: $77 USD

Hike to Champadevi Hill (the third highest place around Kathmandu Valley). The hike starts in the gorgeous and inspiring landscape of Pharping and winds through beautiful pine forest while taking in incredible Himalayan views while hiking, showcasing the brilliant Langtang ranges, Ganesh Himal. If you are lucky and the day is clear, you can even get a glimpse of mountain views. The summit also features a well-known temple to Goddess Champa Devi, making this a natural and spiritual retreat in hike form.

Highlights of the Hike

Feature Description
Panoramic Mountains Views Enjoying panoramic views of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Gauri Shankar and more. 
Rich Biodiversity Explore forest of oak, pine and rhododendrons with a variety of wildlife from monkeys, squirrels and birds, including eagles and vultures. 
Cultural Significance  See the Champadevi Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. 
Accessible Trail This trek is well-marked, moderate in difficulty, with stunning views appropriate for most people with any level of fitness. 
Proximity to Kathmandu Just a short distance from the city. this hike is suitable for anyone in need of a quick day hike with limited time.  

Kakani Village Hike 

  • Duration: 1 Day
  •  Destinations: Kathmandu – Kakani – Kathmandu
  •  Age Range: 7 to 67 years
  •  Activity Level: Easy
  •  Price Starting From: $119 US

Kakani is a peaceful beauty located on a ridge in northwest Kathmandu. This easy hike provides an incredible view of the Langtang range, forests of pine trees, and an opportunity to learn about the lives of rural Nepalis. The village and the areas scenically surrounding it are known for trout farms and strawberry farms, but Kakani provides a scenic welcome away from the reminder of life in the city.

Highlights of the Hike

Feature Description
Scenic Mountain Views Take in panoramic view of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal and Manaslu ranges.
Cultural Experience Engage with local tamang communities and learn about their everyday rural lifestyle. 
Flora and Fauna Walk through rhododendron and pine forests to see Himalayan monal and countless butterflies. 
Agricultural Insights Visit local strawberry farms and learn about local trout farming techniques. 
Accessible Location Only a few hours from Kathmandu, and thus an easy day trip. 

Godavari Hiking Trail 

  • Duration: 1 Day
  • Destinations: Godavari – Phulchoki Hill – Godavari
  • Age Range: 8 to 65 years
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Price Starting From: $77 USD 

Go for a nature hike from the botanical gardens in Godavari to the peak of Phulchoki Hill, the highest point in the Kathmandu Valley. This is a great hike that provides various flora and fauna, as you will see different types of orchids and rhododendrons in bloom and various types of birds also. You will enjoy amazing views of the valley from the summit looking out into the Himalayan range in the far distance.

Highlights of the Hike

Features Description
Botanical Diversity Explore the Godawari Botanical Garden or see many kinds of plants.  
Birdwatching Haven Observe more than 300 different birds, from the Himalayan Monal to the spiny Babbler, and thousand of different warblers. 
Panoramic Views Take in views from the top of Phulchoki, where you can see almost the whole Kathmandu valley and most of the Himalayan ranges.
Rich Flora Stroll through forests of orchids, rhododendrons, and ferns.  
Cultural Sites Visit the phulchoki Mai Temple site nearby, which is sacred to the local people. 

Kathmandu Sightseeing City Tour 

Duration: 6 hrs. 
Trip Cost: US$ 67
Age Range: All ages
Activity Level: Easy
Group Size: Group or private tour options 
Start/End Point: Your hotel in Kathmandu

Experience the colorful capital of Nepal on a total city tour combined with historic locations, temples, bazaars, and cultural museums. When thinking of ways to learn about the history, architecture and life of the locality in and around Kathmandu, this will benefit you if you are a first-time visitor interested in fully grasping the history and spiritual importance of the city in a few short hours.

Highlights of the Tour

Feature Description
UNESCO Sites See the famous sites such as Swoyambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. 
Cultural Immersion Observe the daily life of the people of Kathmandu (from traditional rituals to local markets). 
Architectural Marvels Explore amazing ancient palaces and temples with incredible Newari architecture and craftsmanship.
Local Cuisine Option to consume genuine Nepali meals at a traditional restaurant. 
Expert Guidance Be educated by a knowledgeable tour guide - who can give you some of the history and culture behind all that you are seeing. 

One Day Kathmandu Tour Sightseeing

Duration: 6 Hours
Trip Cost: US$ 67 to 97 USD
Age Range: All ages
Activity Level: Easy
Group Size: Group or private tour options 
Start/End Point: Your hotel in Kathmandu 

This full-day tour of Kathmandu is a complete package in experiencing the most significant location and sites within the Kathmandu Valley. You will visit famous UNESCO World Heritage temples and palaces within the Kathmandu Valley. To name a few of the places, you will see the views of Swayambhunath (known as Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, and many others. You will gain considerable education about the practice of religion in Nepal and see the cultural experiences of the people throughout a full-day trip. At most of these sites, they are all very easy day trips right from the heart of Kathmandu.

Highlights of the Tour

Feature Description
Key Landmarks Visit Swoyambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple and Boudha Stupa.
Cultural Insights Discover the significance of each site, like for instance, the importance of Swoyambhunath within the Buddhist faith, during your tour guide's detailed explanation. 
Flexible Itinerary You can customize your tour to maximize time on exploring the site of most interest to you. 
Convenient timing A great opportunity for people with tight schedule. 
Comfortable Transport Travel between sites in your private transport without the headaches of public transport. 

Patan and Bhaktapur Tour

Duration: 6 Hours
Trip Cost: US$67 to 97 USD
Age Range: All ages
Activity Level: Easy
Group Size: Group or private tour options 
Start/End Point: Your hotel in Kathmandu

This day trip to the historic cities Patan and Bhaktapur is sure to delight anyone with an interest in culture. You will experience some of the best Newari architecture, outstanding temples and ancient palaces in Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Highlights of the journey include traditional crafts, community markets, and centuries old monuments, all providing an engaging perspective on Nepal's rich heritage and local culture from an UNESCO World Heritage perspective.

Highlights of the Tour

Feature Description
Patan Durbar Square Go see beautiful temples and places that reflect the artistry of the Newars. 
Bhaktapur Durbar Square Stroll around a living city that is an open-air meseum, with many medieval buildings still more or less intact. 
Artisan Workshops Observe traditional craft practices among local artisans in the fields of pottery and wood carving. 
Cultural Immersion Roam amongst how people live now.
Scenic Views While at the same time enjoying the wonderful scenery and Newar archutecture. 

1 Day Kathmandu Cycling Tour

Duration: 3 - 5 Hours
Trip Cost: US$97
Age Range: 12–60 years
Activity Level: Moderate
Group Size: Group or private tour options 
Start/End Point: Your hotel in Kathmandu

Explore Kathmandu’s array of cultural and natural features on a guided cycle tour. This active day trip will cover historic neighborhoods, beautiful countryside and local markets, uniting travel activity with cultural exploration. A great undertaking for fitness fanatics and adventurers alike, the guided cycling tour is an excellent way to experience the city as a heritage.

Highlights of the Tour

Feature Description
Offbeat Exploration Find those quiter places and neighborhoods where one can get a glimpse of what local life is really like. 
Physical Activity You get your exercise while sightseeing. 
Local Interactions Engage with the locals and the vibrant street life of the city.
Flexible Routes Routes will depends upon what interests you and how physically fit you feel. 
Eco-Friendly Travel Explore and enjoy the city while also reducing your carbon footprint.  

How to Plan and Prepare Your Hiking Tour from Kathmandu?

Choose Your Trek Trail

  • Research Short Treks: Think of treks within the Kathmandu Valley, such as Nagarkot, Shivapuri or Phulchowki, which can be done as short day treks or overnight treks.
  • Think of Difficulty Levels: Consider your physical fitness and then choose a trail that provides an equivalent amount of difficulty. 
  • Cultural Interests: Some trails will allow you to experience culture by trekking from village to village and through temples.

Choose the Best Time to Go Hiking

  • Best Seasons: Best is pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) when the weather is sunny and the trails are great. but people trek and hike all the months in a year. 
  • Monsoon Season: June to August is rainy season but the environment is coler and more green. and very very less tourist no crowd. 

Prepare the Necessary Equipment

  • Clothing: Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
  • Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good traction (the newer condition of the hiking boots, the better).
  • Gear: Pack a backpack with water, snacks, first-aid kit, sunscreen, and a hat.
  • Ask your tour operator agency for necessary equipment. 

Obtain Required Permits

  • Find out the Permits You Need: For example, there are national park entry fees and heritage UNESCO entry fees. 
  • Know the Local Regulations: Don't forget about local regulations because some areas will insist on permits to enter.

Guided vs. Independent Hiking

  • Hiring a Guide: If you decide to go with a guide, the guide will limit your risks as well as increase your exposure to local culture, which adds so much to the experience. and feel more easy access. 

  • Hiring a local guide is beneficial for both the local people and the travellers, who will be secure, safe, and knowledgeable about the region.  

Things to Consider

  • Weather: It is important to check the weather forecast before any hike, as well as during a hike if you have any doubts.
  • Local Advice: When you reach a local place, feel free to ask a lobby or a trekking company for any hike trail information.

Responsibilities while Hiking

  • Leave No Trace: Make sure you take out all of your rubbish. safe the nature and eco tourist. 
  • Cultural Behaviours: It is important to learn about the social norms and customs of the places you are visiting.

Who Can Choose Kathmandu Hiking Tours?

Any people can choose in Kathmandu tours like trek, hike, tours, walking, wander and many more activities. 

Families with Kids

Many hiking programs in and around Kathmandu are family-friendly, with gentle trails that are appropriate for kids. There are also cultural visits involved, and educational, and they can be a lot of fun for kids hiking.

Senior Citizens

There are many short, easy treks available for older people! These consist of easy walking on gentle trails, allowing people the opportunity to enjoy Nepali nature but not be too active.

Beginner Hikers

Almost all trails around Kathmandu are suitable for beginner hikers around Kathmandu with easy options, and no trekking experience needed! These trails will give beginner hikers an experience of nature and the culture of the region.

Small Groups and Friends

Hiking tours are a great choice for small groups looking for an exciting and fun way to have an adventure and share the experience. The trails and areas around Kathmandu give you beautiful changes in scenery and cultural experiences appropriate for groups.

Solo Travellers

For individual travelers, guided hiking tours provide a sense of safety and companionship for the adventure. Many guided hiking tours enable you to meet other travelers and, if you like, engage with them while cruising the trails and sharing with each other who you are.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Trails of Kathmandu

Hiking in Kathmandu is not only a form of exercise; it is immersing yourself in the cultural, natural and spiritual beauty of Nepal. Each hike, sunrise hike in Nagarkot, ancient monasteries in Namobuddha, and walking through the forests of Shivapuri National Park are all unique.

There are hikes and treks for all sorts of abilities and hikes that can be half-day, full-day, several days, and tougher multi-day treks. No matter what you do, once you have tied up your laces and are heading down the trails of Kathmandu, you will know you are experiencing the magic of Nepal's different cultures, stunning landscapes and rich history with every step. 

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